Best credit cards in the Netherlands: complete guide 2026

Credit cards, however, are not as widely used in the Netherlands as they are in countries like the UK or US. Most everyday payments are made by debit card, cash or via online banking systems such as iDEAL. Some smaller shops and local businesses may not accept credit cards at all. That means a credit card in the Netherlands is often used more for travel, larger purchases and international spending rather than daily groceries or transport.

Many Dutch credit cards charge extra for non-euro transactions or overseas ATM withdrawals, which makes it important to compare options carefully and consider alternatives like Wise.

While Wise isn’t a credit card, it offers a debit card linked to a multi-currency account, making it a practical fit for the Dutch payment landscape. Since debit cards are already the norm in the Netherlands, Wise can feel more natural to use day-to-day while still allowing you to hold multiple currencies, spend internationally and avoid unexpected foreign transaction fees when travelling or sending money home.

What makes a credit card “best” for expats?

Key features to look for

The best cards in the Netherlands for expats are the ones that make life easy at home and when you’re overseas. A good card can cut unnecessary costs and even reward you for the way you spend. Here are some features worth keeping in mind when comparing your options:

• No foreign transaction fees: Many Dutch credit cards charge an extra 2-3% when you pay in another currency. A card that waives this fee can save a noticeable amount when booking flights, shopping online from abroad, or spending in your home country.
• Competitive exchange rates: Some providers add hidden markups when converting between currencies. Cards that use exchange rates closer to the mid-market rate make sure more of your money goes where you want it.
• Global acceptance: Choosing a card on the Visa or Mastercard networks means you can rely on it almost anywhere in the world, from everyday purchases to withdrawing cash from an ATM.
• Travel benefits and protections: Extras like travel insurance, purchase protection, extended warranties, or airport lounge access can make a big difference if you’re often on the move.
• Reward programs that fit an international lifestyle: Cashback, frequent flyer points, or flexible rewards that can be used globally are useful if you split your time between countries.
• Easy online management and support: Having a card you can manage online or through an app is essential when you’re travelling. Look for 24/7 customer support and quick ways to freeze or replace your card if something goes wrong.

Understanding credit card fees for international spending

If you plan to use your Dutch credit card abroad, it’s worth getting familiar with the different fees that can sneak in. Even small percentages can build up quickly when you’re travelling or shopping online from overseas.

Foreign transaction fees: Many Dutch credit cards add a charge of around 2-3% when you make a purchase in another currency. For example, a €1,000 hotel bill overseas could end up costing around €1,020 or more once the fee is added.

ATM withdrawal fees abroad: Taking out cash with a credit card usually comes with an extra fee, which is charged on top of any foreign transaction costs. In many cases, interest starts to accrue right away, so withdrawing cash this way is one of the most expensive options.

Hidden costs in exchange rate markups: On top of visible fees, some Dutch banks and providers use exchange rates that include their own margin. Instead of the fair mid-market rate, you may end up paying several euros more for every transaction.

Dynamic currency conversion traps: You might be offered the choice to pay in euros instead of the local currency when paying abroad. It feels convenient, but usually results in a poor exchange rate and extra charges. Choosing the local currency almost always works out cheaper.

Annual fees vs. benefits: Some credit cards charge an annual fee in exchange for perks like travel insurance, purchase protection, or rewards. For expats and frequent travellers, the benefits can be worth it, but if you rarely use them you may be better off with a low- or no-fee card.

Top 5 best credit cards for expats in the Netherlands

A credit card can make everyday spending and international travel much easier. The cards below are among the best options available for expats in the Netherlands this year. Each offers a different balance of rewards, fees and travel benefits, so you can find one that suits your lifestyle. We’ll take a more in-depth look at the details of each provider after this quick comparison.

The following cards were chosen based on an analysis of the following benefits for expat users:

• Affordability regarding annual fees and interest rates
• Rewards on offer, such as travel perks, shopping benefits, and partner discounts
• Availability to new residents living in the Netherlands

Card name	Foreign transaction fees and interest rates	Annual fee	Key benefits	Best for
American Express Gold Card	2.99% foreign exchange fee on non-EUR transactions No interest charged as balance must be paid in full monthly	€20 per month (€240 per year)	1 Membership Rewards point per €1 spent; 4 Priority Pass lounge visits per year; Lounge On-the-go twice per month; Dining for 2 benefit (up to €100 per year); comprehensive travel & cancellation insurance; 180-day purchase protection	Expats who travel regularly and value airport lounge access, dining perks and flexible rewards
ING PlatinumCard	0% on the first €1,000 per month; 2% mark-up on non-EUR transactions above that No interest charged (balance paid in full monthly)	€52.20 per year	365-day purchase protection; car rental excess cover up to €1,500; travel and delay insurance; Apple Pay & Google Pay; Points programme	Expats who want lower annual fees and reduced foreign exchange costs on moderate international spending
ICS Visa World Card	2% on non-euro transactions (EU non-euro & outside EU) 21 days interest-free repayment period	€42.95 per year	180-day purchase insurance; delivery guarantee; optional travel insurance; 24/7 fraud prevention; Apple Pay; emergency card & cash service	Expats looking for a low-cost, widely accepted Visa credit card for travel and online purchases
ANWB Visa Classic Card	2% on non-euro transactions No interest if balance is repaid monthly (no instalment option)	€29.95 per year	180-day purchase insurance; delivery guarantee; emergency card & cash up to €1,000; worldwide acceptance	ANWB members seeking an affordable, straightforward credit card for travel and online purchases
ICS Mastercard Gold	2% on non-euro transactions 21 days interest-free repayment period	€45 per year	365-day purchase insurance; delivery guarantee; supplementary travel insurance; 24/7 fraud prevention; bank-independent issuer	Expats who want extended purchase protection and travel coverage at a moderate annual fee

1. American Express Gold Card

Key Features	Details
Annual fees	€20 per month (€240 per year)
Foreign transaction fees	2.99% currency conversion fee on non-euro purchases
Perks	1 Membership Rewards point per €1 spent4 Priority Pass lounge visits per yearComprehensive travel and cancellation insurance180-day purchase protectionNo preset spending limit
Best for	Expats who travel frequently and want lounge access, dining benefits and flexible airline transfer rewards

Pros of American Express Gold Card

Cons of American Express Gold Card

Earn 1 Membership Rewards point per €1 spent, transferable to airline and hotel partners such as Flying Blue and Hilton Honors 4 complimentary Priority Pass lounge visits per year (1,300+ lounges worldwide) Lounge On-the-go benefit twice per month at major Dutch airports Dining for 2 benefit worth up to €100 per year Comprehensive travel insurance including up to €1.5 million medical cover and €4,500 trip cancellation 180-day purchase protection and Money Back Guarantee No preset spending limit (spending power adjusts based on profile)

€240 annual fee 2.99% foreign transaction fee on non-EUR spending Not accepted everywhere in the Netherlands compared to Visa or Mastercard Requires a minimum gross annual income of €30,000 Must pay full balance monthly (no revolving credit option)

2. ING Platinum Card

Key Features	Details
Annual fees	€52.20 per year
Foreign transaction fees	0% on transactions up to €1,000 per monthly billing period; 2% mark-up on amounts above €1,000; 2% mark-up also applies to foreign currency cash withdrawals
Perks	365-day purchase protectionTravel and cancellation insuranceCar rental excess cover (up to €1,500 per event)Points earning through INGApple Pay & Google Pay compatibility
Best for	Expats who travel occasionally and want some foreign exchange savings paired with comprehensive insurance benefits at a low annual fee

Pros of ING Platinum Card	Cons of ING Platinum Card
0% foreign transaction fees on the first €1,000 per month Low annual fee compared to premium cards 365-day purchase protection against loss, theft and damage Car rental excess automatically covered up to €1,500 Travel, baggage delay and flight delay insurance included No interest charged (full balance collected monthly) Works with Apple Pay and Google Pay	2% mark-up applies above €1,000 in foreign currency spending 4% fee (minimum €4.50) for cash withdrawals Requires an ING current account Requires a €1,000 monthly income paid into your ING account Using foreign currency costs slightly more than ING debit card (1.4%) May lead to overdraft if insufficient funds on debit date

3. ICS Visa World Card

Key Features	Details
Annual fees	€42.95 per year
Foreign transaction fees	2% on payments in EU countries without the euro and outside the EU
Perks	80-day purchase insuranceDelivery guarantee for online purchasesOptional travel insurance cover24/7 fraud preventionEmergency card and cash (up to €1,000)
Best for	Expats who want a simple, affordable Visa card with purchase protection and global acceptance

Pros of ICS Visa World Card	Cons of ICS Visa World Card
Low annual fee compared to many premium cards Accepted at 46+ million locations worldwide 180-day purchase insurance included Delivery guarantee for online purchases Bank-independent (can link to any European IBAN) 21 days interest-free repayment Emergency card and emergency cash service abroad	2% foreign transaction fee 4% ATM withdrawal fee on debit balance Travel insurance is supplementary, not comprehensive No built-in lounge access or premium travel perks Lower maximum spending limit (€5,000) Paper statements cost extra

4. ANWB Visa Classic Card

Key Features	Details
Annual fees	€29.95 per year (exclusive to ANWB members)
Foreign transaction fees	2% on non-euro transactions; no extra fees for euro payments within the eurozone
Perks	180-day purchase insuranceOnline delivery guaranteeEmergency card and cash (up to €1,000)24/7 fraud monitoring
Best for	ANWB members who want a low-cost credit card with purchase protection and reliable international acceptance

Pros ofANWB Visa Classic Card	Cons ofANWB Visa Classic Card
Low annual fee (€29.95) 180-day purchase insurance included Delivery guarantee for online purchase Emergency card and up to €1,000 emergency cash abroad Accepted worldwide wherever Visa is accepted No interest if repaid monthly	2% foreign transaction fee Requires ANWB membership No instalment repayment option 4% ATM withdrawal fee Lower maximum spending limit (typically up to €2,500–€5,000) Limited travel insurance compared to premium cards

5. ICS Mastercard Gold Credit Card

Key Features	Details
Annual fees	€45 per year
Foreign transaction fees	2% on payments in EU countries without the euro and outside the EU
Perks	365-day purchase insuranceOnline delivery guaranteeTravel insurance cover24/7 fraud preventionSavings option with interest
Best for	Expats who shop frequently online or abroad and want extended purchase protection with global acceptance

Pros of ICS Mastercard Gold Credit Card	Cons of ICS Mastercard Gold Credit Card
365-day purchase insurance included by default Delivery guarantee for online purchases Supplementary travel insurance when trip is paid with the card Accepted at 46+ million locations worldwide Bank-independent (any European IBAN) 21 days interest-free repayment	2% foreign transaction fee 4% ATM withdrawal fee (1% if you have a positive balance) No premium perks such as lounge access Maximum spending limit is €5,000

Wise card: An alternative to credit cards

Despite not being as popular compared to other countries, credit cards still have their place. However, in many everyday situations the Wise debit card can be the smarter choice for expats living in the Netherlands:

• For regular international money transfers: Credit cards aren’t designed for sending money abroad, and doing so often triggers cash advance fees. Wise lets you transfer to 140+ countries directly at the mid-market rate.
• When you want to avoid debt: A debit card means you can only spend what you already have, helping you stay on budget and avoid interest charges.
• For better exchange rates: Credit cards often build hidden margins into the rate. Wise converts at the mid-market rate, so you get more value for your money.
• For transparent, upfront pricing: Wise shows you all fees upfront in the app before you confirm the payment. With credit cards, fees are often bundled into interest or less favourable exchange rates.

Wise debit card benefits

• Mid-market exchange rates with no hidden markups, unlike most banks and credit cards.
• Low, transparent fees starting from 0.47%, compared to the 2-3% many Dutch credit cards charge on international spending.
• One card that works in 150+ countries, without foreign transaction fees*.
• Multi-currency support that lets you hold and manage 40+ currencies at once.
• Real-time control, with instant spending notifications, the ability to freeze or unfreeze your card, and budgeting tools in the Wise app.

* Free to spend in a currency you hold enough balance in. Otherwise, conversion costs will be charged.

Cost comparison: Wise vs. credit cards

When you’re spending overseas, the way your card handles fees and exchange rates can make a big difference. Let’s look at a simple example of spending overseas with a typical Dutch credit card versus using the Wise debit card.

Example: Spending EUR 1,500 while on holiday in the US

Spend abroad	Wise debit card	ICS Visa World Card
Transaction value	1,500 EUR equivalent in USD	1,500 EUR equivalent in USD
Exchange rate	Mid-market rate with no markup	Visa rate + 2% currency surcharge
Foreign transaction fee	None	€30
Total cost	1,500 EUR + small Wise conversion fee (often under 1%)	About €1,530 plus any exchange rate margin

With Wise, you pay close to the real exchange rate and only a small, upfront conversion fee. With many Dutch credit cards, foreign transaction fees and exchange rate markups can eat into your finances, meaning the same holiday purchase could cost you 30 EUR or more.

How to choose the best credit card as an expat

Step-by-step selection process

1. Assess your spending patterns: Think about where most of your money goes. If you travel frequently, a card with no foreign transaction fees and travel perks may save the most. If you shop locally, a rewards program that matches your day-to-day spending might be better value.
2. Calculate potential fees and savings: Add up the likely costs, including annual fees, foreign transaction charges and ATM fees. Balance these against the benefits, such as cashback or points, to see if the card really pays for itself.
3. Consider your credit history status: If you’re new to the Netherlands you probably don’t have a local credit history yet. Some premium cards may be harder to qualify for until you’ve built up your record, so check eligibility before applying.
4. Evaluate additional benefits needed: Extras like travel insurance, purchase protection, or airport lounge access can be very useful, but only if you’ll actually use them. Make sure the perks align with your lifestyle.
5. Check eligibility requirements: Many providers have income thresholds or residency rules. Confirm what’s required so you don’t waste time applying for a card you’re unlikely to be approved for.

Questions to ask before applying for a credit card

Here are a few things to consider when you apply for a credit card in the Netherlands:

• What are the total costs of international spending, including fees and exchange rates?
• Do I qualify for this card based on my current income and credit history?
• What additional benefits will I realistically use, and which are just “nice to have”?
• How does this card compare to alternatives like Wise, which let you manage multiple currencies without the risk of building up credit card debt?

Application tips for expats

Applying for a credit card as a newcomer in the Netherlands can feel daunting, but understanding what lenders look for will help you prepare and boost your chances of approval.

Improving your approval chances

• Building a Dutch credit history: If you’ve just arrived, your overseas credit record usually won’t transfer to the Netherlands. Start small by opening a basic bank account or using other forms of credit responsibly, such as a mobile phone contract or utility account, to begin building your local history.
• Required documentation: Expect to provide valid ID such as a passport, visa, or driver’s licence. Most banks also require proof of address in the Netherlands, which can be a utility bill or a rental agreement.
• Income verification for expats: Lenders often need evidence of steady income, which may include recent payslips, an employment contract, or bank statements. Some banks are more flexible for newcomers, but being able to show stable earnings helps significantly.
• Address history requirements: Many applications ask for your residential history for the past two or three years. If you’ve lived abroad, be prepared to provide those details too.

Common rejection reasons

• Insufficient Dutch credit history: Without a track record of borrowing and repayment in the Netherlands, some applications may be declined. Starting with a more accessible product can help.
• Income verification issues: If your documents don’t clearly show reliable earnings, the bank may hesitate to approve your application.
• Address verification problems: Missing or incomplete proof of address is a common hurdle. Double-check your paperwork before applying.
• Too many recent applications: Submitting multiple credit card applications in a short time can hurt your chances, as it signals financial instability to lenders.

Building credit history as an expat

When you move to the Netherlands, one of the first financial challenges can be establishing a local credit history. Your record from abroad usually does not transfer, so lenders assess you based only on your Dutch financial activity. While that can feel frustrating, consistent and responsible use of financial products will gradually build your profile and support future applications for credit cards, loans or a mortgage.

A credit card can help if you use it carefully. Paying the balance in full and on time each month shows lenders that you manage credit responsibly. You can also build history by putting utility bills or phone contracts in your name and keeping payments up to date. It typically takes at least six months of steady activity to see progress, but within a year or two many expats establish a solid credit record in the Netherlands.

Managing your credit card abroad

Having a credit card can make life much easier when you’re travelling, but it’s also important to know how to use it wisely. A few small habits can save you money and prevent unwanted surprises while you’re away.

Best practices for international spending

• Pay in the local currency: Choosing to be charged in the currency of the country you’re in usually gives you the fairest exchange rate and avoids hidden conversion costs.
• Tell your bank before you travel: A quick note to your card provider about your trip can help stop your card from being declined due to suspected fraud.
• Check your spending often: Use your bank’s app or online banking to keep an eye on your transactions and quickly flag anything unusual.
• Keep emergency contact numbers handy: Store your bank’s emergency contact details somewhere safe so you can act quickly if your card goes missing.

Avoiding common pitfalls

• Dynamic currency conversion traps: Merchants or ATMs may ask if you’d like to be charged in euros, but this usually comes with a poor rate. Always choose the local currency instead.
• ATM fee accumulation: Frequent small withdrawals abroad can add up in fees from both your card provider and the local ATM operator.
• Overspending due to currency confusion: It’s easy to overspend if you’re not familiar with exchange rates. Keeping a rough conversion in mind helps stay on budget.
• Missing payment due dates while travelling: Missing a due date can impact your credit score in the Netherlands, so consider setting up an automatic payment for at least the minimum amount due.

Conclusion

How to choose the best credit card in the Netherlands as an expat comes down to matching features and rewards with your own lifestyle and spending patterns. Some cards focus on travel perks and insurance, while others keep things simple with lower annual fees and broad international acceptance. It’s also worth remembering that the Netherlands is a debit-card-first market. Credit cards are less commonly used for everyday payments and are often more useful for travel, online purchases, car rentals and larger bookings rather than daily shopping.

It’s important to look past the headline offers and check the real costs. Foreign transaction fees, annual charges and exchange rate markups can make a noticeable dent in your finances. Comparing cards side by side makes it easier to spot where you’ll save money and which benefits will actually suit your needs.

Credit cards are useful tools, but they don’t cover every situation. Many expats use them alongside a Wise debit card, which offers spending in 40+ currencies, no foreign transaction fees, and transparent mid-market exchange rates. With Wise you can also track spending and control your card instantly in the app, making it a versatile addition to any credit card you choose.

Useful Resources

• De Nederlandsche Bank – Central bank of the Netherlands (accessed 17th February 2026)
• ING – Information on ING credit cards and payment services (accessed 17th February 2026)
• International Card Services – Details on ICS Visa and Mastercard credit cards (accessed 17th February 2026)
• ANWB – ANWB Visa Classic Card information (accessed 17th February 2026)
• American Express – American Express Netherlands credit card information (accessed 17th February 2026
• Wise – multi-currency account and debit card for global spending without foreign transaction fees (accessed 17th February 2026)